Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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403. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the estimated cost of extending the current young adult Leap card to 13-15-year-olds. [38928/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.

As the Deputy may be aware, participation in the YAC scheme was initially for 19 to 23 year olds inclusive, however, in October 2022 the YAC was further extended to include third levels students aged 16 to 18 years old. While 13-15 year olds can avail of child fares on PSO services, the age criteria for child fares on commercial services varies between operators.

In light of the NTA's responsibility with regard to the administration of Young Adult Card, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to the cost of extending the current young adult Leap card to 13-15-year-olds to the Authority for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.